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Field Key to Sharks of North Carolina and Adjacent Waters

Florida Program for Shark Research


Smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis)
Biological Profile


smooth dogfish
Smooth dogfish
(Mustelus canis)
illustration ©FAO courtesy Species Identification and Biodata



Distinguishing Characteristics
1. Fin spines lacking

2. No dorsal spots

3. First and second dorsal fins nearly equal in size

4. Eyes large, oval-shaped, and catlike



smooth dogfish
Smooth dogfish
(Mustelus canis)
Specimen
© George Burgess


smooth dogfish
Smooth dogfish
(Mustelus canis)
Specimen: Ventral view of head
© George Burgess